Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fallbrook, CA (2024 Update)
- Fallbrook Solar Installation Cost: $6,837
- 25-Year Savings: $15,526
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fallbrook
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Fallbrook.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Fallbrook it’s 3 per watt.The average Fallbrook homeowner needs a 2.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $6,837 with the federal tax credit, or $9,777 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Fallbrook homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $28,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Fallbrook
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,178 |
| 3 years | $-1,860 |
| 5 years | $1,459 |
| 7 years | $4,777 |
| 9 years | $8,095 |
| 11 years | $11,413 |
| 13 years | $14,731 |
| 15 years | $18,050 |
| 17 years | $21,368 |
| 19 years | $24,686 |
| 21 years | $28,004 |
| 23 years | $31,322 |
| 25 years | $34,641 |
Top Solar Installers in Fallbrook
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra labor and expertise. Because of that, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers nearby:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Fallbrook
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fallbrook
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Fallbrook is $6,837, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $3,470. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Fallbrook, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Fallbrook provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it’s crucial to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you pick will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Fallbrook have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.61 | $15,157 | $29,403 | 8.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $39,593 | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $49,977 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $60,556 | 8.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $71,328 | 7.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $82,296 | 7.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $93,457 | 7.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $104,813 | 7.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Fallbrook, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Fallbrook?
The average cost of solar panels in Fallbrook is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Fallbrook?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Fallbrook, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How will solar panels impact the value of my home?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Fallbrook is currently $840,618, which means you could be looking at a value of about $34,465 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Fallbrook is a rewarding investment.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.